Fashion stakes: The Fashions in the Field Competition is sure to be a hotly contested event during the The St Patrick’s Day Races being held at Callaghan Park, Rockhampton on March 17.

Rockhampton’s Callaghan Park Racecourse will be decked in greenery, shamrocks and all things Irish on Saturday, March 17, as Catholic Education, Diocese of Rockhampton, again hosts this year’s St Patrick’s Day Races in support of Rockhampton region Catholic primary schools.

Punters will be hoping for the luck of the Irish to win their pot of gold at the first big event on the Central Queensland racing calendar and it’s set to be bigger and better than ever.

A highlight of the day is the keenly contested Fashions in the Field competition attracting over 80 entrants across four categories including Best Dressed Lady Over 30, Best Dressed Lady Under 30, Best Dressed Gent and Best Millinery.

Coordinator Claire Robson said the competition is an absolute showstopper and a big drawcard on the day.

“It’s a sure bet we will have some exquisite outfits on display. Invariably the level of competition is extremely high and the judges have a tough time choosing finalists and eventual winners in each category,” she said.

St Patrick’s Day Race Club chairman and principal of The Cathedral College, Rockhampton, Rob Alexander, said the meeting was also one of nostalgia, celebrating Rockhampton’s yesteryear and keeping alive a community event that would be remembered by many long-term CQ residents as a major celebration in city.

“Catholic Education has enjoyed a long and wonderful partnership with the St Patrick’s Day Race Club – a partnership honouring our strong connections with the Irish community since Catholic schools were first established here over 150 years ago,” he said.

Mr Alexander said this year’s raceday featured something for everyone including Fashions in the Field competition, raffles, lucky door prize, a variety of catering packages and a full day’s racing.

“As one of Rockhampton’s premier TAB events the day attracts a great social crowd as well as keen interest from local racing connections with a program featuring seven local races including the main event, The St Patrick’s Day Cup.

“Pre-sold tickets to on-course luncheons and grandstand facilities have been very strong and some functions have already sold out.”

Mr Alexander said he’s grateful to the many local businesses who contributed to the day through sponsorship and prize donations.

“This tremendous support has been instrumental in continuing this great community event and we’re very appreciative of the many businesses who partner us in hosting the day.”

General gate entry for the day is $15. For further information visit the Rockhampton Jockey Club website www.callaghanpark.com.au.